Popcorn is perhaps the most versatile snack. It’s got a reputation for being a healthy alternative to potato chips, but it’s also recognized as an indulgent treat. It can take on sweet, salty, savory, spicy, and earthy flavors with ease. It’s also nostalgic, thanks to its association with movie-going experiences and sporting events. In addition to all of that, popcorn also appeals to the widest consumer base, serving as a go-to snack for consumers of all ages. Popcorn’s incredible versatility makes it ideal for innovation, presenting a huge opportunity to snack manufacturers.
Consumers are always on the lookout for new flavor offerings for their favorite snacks. That means it’s time to embrace new possibilities for popcorn! Keep reading for our experts’ takes on up-and-coming trends in the popcorn category – and how brands can capitalize on them.
Bring on the Indulgence
Consumers have been struggling with two opposing desires: to treat themselves in an attempt to manage stress and to prioritize their health and wellness goals. Finding guilt-free ways to indulge has proven to be a challenge for many consumers. Enter popcorn. Having long been lauded as a better-for-you snacking option, popcorn has maintained its much-coveted health halo while also taking on more indulgent flavor profiles.
Among the top growth flavors in the popcorn category in the past year are many hyper-indulgent, dessert inspired flavors. Brands should consider drawing inspiration from popular baked goods, desserts, and other sweet treats when innovating with popcorn flavors. Think red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, lemon meringue pie, dark chocolate raspberry, dirt pie sundae, or spiced carrot cake.
Inspired by Other Salty Snacks
Part of the appeal of popcorn is that it’s a healthier alternative to potato chips, tortilla chips, and other salty snacks. One way that brands have begun making popcorn even more appealing is by adopting flavors typically found on other salty snack products. Indeed, flavors like sour cream and onion, nacho, and ranch have shown substantial growth in the popcorn category in the past year.
Consumers will appreciate the opportunity to satisfy their cravings for their favorite salty snacks and enjoy their favorite flavors, without having to sacrifice their health and wellness goals. Consider looking to the most beloved flavors in other salty snack categories for flavor inspiration for popcorn.
Get Creative with Flavor Combinations
Consumers are growing increasingly tired of more-of-the-same, instead pushing brands to develop flavors that deliver a “wow” factor. Now more than ever, they want to be introduced to flavors that they have never experienced before. One of the best ways that brands can give consumers what they want is by innovating with unique flavor combinations.
The popcorn category is no stranger to unusual flavor mashups; cheddar and caramel has long been a mainstay in the category. Sweet heat flavors have been on the rise in the category recently, as have sweet and savory flavors. Surprise consumers in the best way possible by coming up with creative flavor combinations for popcorn. Think maple chipotle, strawberry basil, or smoky gouda and apple.
Ready to embrace new possibilities for popcorn? Our R&D experts have got you covered! Contact us today to see how Fuchs can help you make something special.